A walk through Atlanta's Doll's Head Trail

Constitution Lakes Nature Preserve is home to a unique art walk dotted with visitor-made pieces constructed entirely from found objects.

Tucked away in a corner of southeast Atlanta is Constitution Lakes, a little-known nature preserve that’s home to scenic wetlands, a variety of wildlife and a constantly evolving art exhibit created entirely from items found in the park.

Once the site of a brickyard, DeKalb County bought the property in 2003 and added a paved walkway and a boardwalk around one side of the lakes.

The brickyard shut down nearly 50 years ago, and the lakes were created when water filled the clay excavation pits. Today, Constitution Lakes is a wetland habitat that’s popular for birding, and it’s home to herons, geese, kingfishers, hawks and several other bird species.

The preserve sustains a wide range of plant species and wildlife, and in March, one of its willow oaks was certified as the tallest in Atlanta.

Venture off the boardwalk to further explore the preserve, and you might happen upon a hidden gem of the park: Doll’s Head Trail.

In 2011, park regulars began constructing art pieces along a section of trail with items found only at Constitution Lakes.

Visitors are encouraged to add to the exhibit as long as they abide by the rule: Only use pieces found in the park.

Hikers can also leave their own mark by picking up one of the markers left along the trail to scribble a note, quote or “I was here” message on one of the numerous bricks that dot the path. Check out more photos from the trail below.